A water tanker, or water tank truck, transports water to locations without a water supply. Available in various sizes and configurations, they are typically equipped with water pumps and spray nozzles. Commonly used in industries such as construction, mining, and landscaping, these vehicles handle tasks like dust control, soil compaction, and equipment cleaning.
This post discusses the capacities of water tankers by type and helps you choose the best vehicle for your needs.
Most standard on-road water trucks hold between 2,000 and 6,000 gallons of water. Larger models of water tanker trucks, like the ones used in construction, can hold up to 20,000 gallons. Specialized models for large-scale construction and mining can hold up to 60,000 gallons.
Water tanker trucks serve a variety of purposes in industrial and construction settings. Here are some of their most common applications:
- Dust Control: Moistening dry soil reduces dust on worksites, improving visibility and minimizing health and environmental risks.
- Soil Compaction: Water aids in compacting soil evenly, creating a stable foundation for construction projects. It also highlights uneven areas after leveling by pooling in low spots.
- Fire Control: These trucks can assist in firefighting and transport water to fire-prone areas.
- Agriculture: Useful for irrigation and supplying water to crops during drought conditions.
- Cleaning: Ideal for street cleaning and washing equipment at construction sites.
Water tanker trucks come in various types, each specialized for specific tasks. Below is an overview of common types, along with their tank sizes and capacities:
These trucks, also called rigid or on-road water trucks, are commonly used for dust control at construction sites accessible by standard roads, as well as street cleaning and firefighting. Equipped with water tanks, gauges, hoses, and spray systems, they typically hold between 2,000 and 6,000 gallons of water.
Designed for rough terrain, off-road rigid water trucks are ideal for remote areas like mining and quarry sites. They often feature advanced systems like automatic water delivery based on speed and have high ground clearance for safe operation. Most models carry 8,000 to 40,000 gallons, with some holding up to 60,000 gallons.
Built for tight turns and challenging terrain, these trucks have a joint between the cab and trailer for enhanced maneuverability. Their lower center of gravity provides stability on slopes but less clearance for extremely rough terrain. Most models hold 5,000 to 10,000 gallons of water.
Tank trailers are flexible options, available in a range of sizes. Smaller trailers hold 300 to 3,000 gallons and can be towed by smaller vehicles, while larger trailers for semi-trucks carry 4,000 to 12,000 gallons. Typically used on well-maintained roads, they are common in urban and suburban settings and are efficient for smaller tasks.
Water truck tanks are typically made from the following materials:
- Steel: Durable and ideal for tough conditions in construction and mining. Steel tanks come in various shapes, making them a versatile option.
- Aluminum: Lighter than steel with high corrosion resistance, though less durable.
- Polyethylene: A lightweight, durable plastic that resists rust, buckling, and cracking.
- Fiberglass: Lightweight and rust-resistant, though less durable than other materials.
Steel is most commonly used for potable water, while other materials may be suitable if they meet FDA standards.
Selecting the right water tanker is crucial for your project’s success. Here are three key considerations to guide your decision:
Select a capacity based on your water needs. Consider how often you can refill the tank—higher capacity means fewer trips if the water source is far. Also, choose a material based on the required durability and the specific applications of your project.
For off-road or hard-to-reach areas, choose a durable vehicle suited for challenging terrain. For standard roads, a regular water tanker or trailer with a DOT tank will suffice.
Larger water tankers with higher capacities generally cost more. Consider the cost of buying and maintaining a tanker versus renting one.
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